Heavy Security, Gridlock in Abuja as Soldiers, Police Block Roads Over #FreeNnamdiKanu Protest

Residents and commuters in Abuja were stranded for hours on Monday morning as soldiers and police mounted heavy security checkpoints and barricades on major routes into the city, following reports of a planned protest demanding the release of Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB) leader, Nnamdi Kanu.

The protest, reportedly spearheaded by #RevolutionNow convener and former presidential candidate of the African Action Congress (AAC), Omoyele Sowore, triggered massive gridlock across key entry points into the Federal Capital Territory (FCT).

By 4:00 a.m., military personnel had blocked the Keffi–Abuja Expressway at Karu Bridge near Sani Abacha Barracks, conducting thorough stop-and-search operations on vehicles entering the city. Thousands of commuters from Nyanya, Karu, Mararaba, and Masaka were left stranded for hours.

Similar scenes were witnessed along the Dutse–Bwari–City Centre route, while motorists approaching the city through Airport Road were diverted at the National Mosque, as security operatives sealed off access to the Central Area.

A message circulated among civil servants early Monday warned:
“Good morning, dear colleagues, please, if you are coming from Airport Road to the Central Area, follow Area 1. Security blocked from National Mosque.”

Several major roads around Eagle Square, the Federal Secretariat, and the National Assembly were also heavily guarded by armed personnel.

Security sources said the massive deployment was a preventive measure aimed at maintaining public order and averting potential unrest during the planned demonstration.

Nnamdi Kanu has been in detention since his re-arrest and extradition to Nigeria in June 2021. His supporters have consistently demanded his release, citing multiple court orders and concerns over his deteriorating health.